Hilton looks to double NZ footprint

Hilton intends doubling its number of Australasian hotels in the next five years and New Zealand is an important part of the growth, according to the region vice-president operations with the hotel company, Heidi Kunkel. Kunkel was in New Zealand this week, having begun the role six weeks ago (the experienced hospitality professional was most recently with Club Med for 15 years) and says the aim is to have a Hilton and at least one DoubleTree in every major city or tourist centre in the country. Next to open is DoubleTree Wellington in July, adding to a presence Hilton already has in Auckland, Lake Taupo, Christchurch and Queenstown. ‘This is an incredibly exciting time for the travel industry, full of enthusiasm, confidence and opportunities.’